Are you looking for some ways to keep your cat healthy? I have two cats and I’m trying to do all I can to ensure their good well-being and health for many years to come. If you have a furry friend or you are going to adopt a new kitty, check out a few tips for keeping your cat healthy.
1. Don’t declaw your cat
Declawing is horrific and leaves your cat with a painful healing process. And if your cat is in pain, she/he isn’t living a healthy and happy life. Most people inaccurately think cat’s claws are a type of “nail,” but it’s not true. In fact, cat’s claws are a vital part of his/her toes and fingers and removing them is incredibly painful and cruel. Scratching is a natural cat behavior, so if you are not ready to value your pet more than your furniture and other material possessions, you must avoid adopting. If you have a cat, don’t forget to provide scratching posts and trimming the claws with nail clippers.
2. Provide a healthy diet
Providing a healthy diet is one of the most effective and easiest ways to keep your cat healthy. A diet of your cat can affect everything from his/her weight to the way his/her body functions. Talk with your veterinarian about the good dietary option for your cat. Don’t forget to discuss how much your cat should be fed every day and choose a food that your cat enjoys eating.
3. Keep your cat indoors
I’m sure you know that outdoor cats are much more likely to be sickened, injured, or killed, that’s why it’s so important to keep your cat indoors to make sure he/she lives a long, healthy life. Although my cats don’t go outside, they still live a very happy and active life surrounded by a climbing tree, toys and plenty of exciting things to explore.
4. Take your cat to the vet for regular check-ups
Even a healthy-looking cat needs regular checkups. The vet will be able to recognize the signs of trouble that you might have overlooked, and will make sure your pet stays up-to-date with any medical tests and vaccinations that are necessary.
5. Watch for any changes
It’s very important to watch for any changes in your cat’s weight, coat, temperament, or activity level. Your cat cannot tell you when something is wrong, so watch for unexpected changes and if something is wrong, call your vet and definitely take your cat in for a visit, no matter how recently the last checkups may have taken place.
6. Spay and neuter
Even though spaying and neutering can cost a lot, it’s also important for your cat’s health and well-being. Spaying and neutering at a young age will help prevent such diseases as uterine infections and testicular cancer in males, and breast cancer in females. If you are worrying about the cost, look for low-cost providers.
7. Keep your cat active
Like people, cats also need exercise to stay healthy. Toy mice, cat trees and string wands will help your cat stay active, especially when he/she is young. If you are going to adopt a cat, remember many groups allow kittens to be adopted only in pairs, so think of adopting two cats. My young cats love playing together, and that keeps them entertained, happy and fit.
Do you love cats? Do you know any other effective ways to keep a cat healthy? Share your tips with us, please.
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